Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu recently visited the Shongtong-Karcham Hydroelectric Project site in Kinnaur district, Himachal Pradesh, to assess the pace of ongoing developmental activities. In a decisive move, the Chief Minister directed that all construction and commissioning works be completed by November 2026, reaffirming the state government’s commitment to boosting clean energy generation and regional development.

A Major Step Towards Energy Security

The Shongtong-Karcham Hydroelectric Project is a run-of-the-river scheme being developed on the river Satluj, a major tributary of the Indus River system. Located in Tehsil Reckong Peo of Kinnaur district, the project represents a crucial step in Himachal Pradesh’s ambitious hydropower expansion strategy.

Once completed, the project will have an installed capacity of 450 MW, comprising three generating units of 150 MW each. It is designed to generate 1593.93 million units (MU) of electricity in a 90% dependable year, contributing significantly to the state’s and the nation’s renewable energy portfolio.

Project Highlights

• Type: Run-of-the-River Scheme
• River: Satluj
• Location: Near villages Powari and Ralli, District Kinnaur
• Gross Head: 128.57 meters
• Diversion Structure: 102.50 m long gated barrage to divert 406 cumecs of water
• Sedimentation Chambers: 4 chambers, each 300 m long
• Powerhouse: Underground structure with 3 vertical-axis Francis turbines

Benefits of the Shongtong-Karcham Hydroelectric Project

1. Clean Energy Generation: The project will supply 450 MW of renewable electricity, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and contributing to India’s green energy goals.
2. High Design Efficiency: With a projected generation of 1593.93 MU annually (in a 90% dependable year), it will be one of the most productive hydropower stations in the region.
3. State-Owned, Public Benefit: As the project is being developed by HPPCL, a government-owned entity, the revenue and power benefits will directly support Himachal Pradesh’s public infrastructure, social development, and fiscal health.
4. Employment Generation: The project has created local job opportunities during its construction phase and will continue to generate long-term operational employment.
5. Minimal Environmental Impact: Being a run-of-the-river scheme, it avoids the creation of large reservoirs, thereby minimizing submergence and ecological disruption.
6. Boost to Regional Development: Improved infrastructure, road connectivity, and power availability in tribal areas like Kinnaur will lead to overall socio-economic upliftment.

Ownership of the Shongtong-Karcham Hydroelectric Project

The Shongtong-Karcham Hydroelectric Project is being developed by the Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation Limited (HPPCL) — a state-owned power utility company.

As the project owner, HPPCL is overseeing all aspects of planning, construction, and future operations of the Shongtong-Karcham plant, ensuring that the project aligns with the government’s goals of clean energy generation, regional development, and environmental responsibility.

Looking Ahead

The Shongtong-Karcham Project is a testament to Himachal Pradesh’s resolve to harness its vast hydropower potential while maintaining ecological balance. With the project slated for completion by November 2026, the state is moving steadily towards becoming a green energy hub of India.

The project also underscores the importance of timely execution in large-scale infrastructure developments that not only contribute to energy security but also enhance regional equity and environmental sustainability.